JOB SPECIALIZATION AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG LIBRARY EMPLOYEES OF ONDO STATE UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OKITIPUPA, ONDO STATE: A REASSESSMENT OF ADAM SMITH'S THEORY OF DIVISION OF LABOUR AND SPECIALIZATION

Abstract

This study delves into the influence of job specialization, defined as the extent to which the overall organizational task is subdivided into smaller components, and departmentalization, which involves the logical grouping of jobs, on the job satisfaction of library staff. Employing a descriptive research design, the study utilized a survey method to gather information from respondents. Fifty questionnaires, comprising 30 structured questions, were distributed among the library staff of Ondo State University of Science and TechnologyOkitipupa, Ondo State with a return rate of 90% (45 questionnaires). The questionnaire focused on respondents' demographics, job specialization, departmentalization, and the effects of these factors on their job satisfaction. Data analysis was conducted based on 42 usable questionnaires, as three were deemed unusable. The findings of this study revealed that a significant proportion of the sampled library staff expressed complete satisfaction with their current areas of specialization. Despite the conventional perception of the Cataloguing Section as the most tedious, this might no longer hold true due to the introduction of online copy cataloguing and classification. This technological advancement allows for interaction with computer systems and, at times, further exploration on the Internet to verify information authenticity. In conclusion, the study asserts that job satisfaction is a subjective and individualistic experience, influencing one's emotions and mental state. Satisfied library personnel are less inclined to leave their positions. Therefore, fostering satisfaction among library staff can contribute to reduced labour turnover and enhanced overall productivity within the organization.